Cheese cave from a domestic fridge – Curd Nerd

Cheese cave from a domestic fridge

Roger B — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 09:51:52 +0000

I am new to cheesemaking but I wanted to make a cheese cave from a domestic fridge without touching or modifying any of the standard thermostats/wiring.
I finally found this TIMETOP 200-240V Digital Temperature Controller Thermocouple -40 °C to 120 °C with Sensor” target=”_blank”>http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00CMA2IN8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 on Amazon.co.uk
This little device allows you to set a temperature and then switches the power on and off within a preset threshold of that temperature.
I wired a plug, via length of cable, to the device and then wired the output to a socket into which I plugged the fridge.
I set the temperature to 13 deg C and located the temperature sensor inside the fridge.
Bingo! The temperature is maintained between 12 degs C and 14 degs C. If I want to use another fridge I just unplug – relocate – plug in and Bingo! once again.
Of course the inside light does not come on unless the device has switched on.

Reply To: Cheese cave from a domestic fridge

mkinson — Fri, 04 Jul 2014 19:00:09 +0000

Thank-you Roger B for your helpful post; I was wondering how on earth I could convert an old fridge for a cheese cave without too much technical know-how!

Reply To: Cheese cave from a domestic fridge

mkinson — Fri, 04 Jul 2014 19:07:34 +0000

PS is it possible to post a picture of your setup please?

Reply To: Cheese cave from a domestic fridge

Roger B — Sat, 05 Jul 2014 16:08:19 +0000

mkinson – I’m sure it’s possible — it’s just that I’m not sure how — guidance would be appreciated.

Reply To: Cheese cave from a domestic fridge

Christine — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 05:02:52 +0000

@Roger B
Take a photo – make sure it is not too big then click on the “Choose File” button at the bottom of the Post area and select your photo as the file to attach.

Reply To: Cheese cave from a domestic fridge

Christine — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 05:08:23 +0000

@mikinson
There is a simpler device available if you are in NZ or Aus.
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Digital-Thermostat-For-Reptile-Snake-Lizard-Heat-Mat-Lamp-Incubator-Aquarium-KZ-/110940631034?ssPageName=ADME:L:OC:GB:3160
No wiring required – plug and play!

I have just ordered on so will post a photo of mine in-situ when it arrives in a week or so

Reply To: Cheese cave from a domestic fridge

Roger B — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 07:55:55 +0000

Thanks Christine – let’s see if it works.

Attachments:

Fridge.jpg

Reply To: Cheese cave from a domestic fridge

user6244 — Sun, 24 Aug 2014 13:10:53 +0000

click on “cheese cave controller” to open

Cheese cave controller

I also got another controller to maintain the milk temp spot on during processing no need to move the milk from sink or off the warmer etc………..

Reply To: Cheese cave from a domestic fridge

johncheese — Fri, 23 Jan 2015 05:34:45 +0000

I too have only a domestic fridge and Di not want to mess with the electrical system.
Instead I read a tip and have put it into place.
Purchase a 24 hour timer plug/socket and set the timer only to come on for a few periods and times during the day
I set mine for 4 times an hour To go on for a period of approx 5. Min
Because one is not opening the door frequently the the temperature should hold fairly steady

Mine stays between 11 and 12 dg C . Obviously can be adjusted by increasing number of intervals or time on.

Hope this helps others

Reply To: Cheese cave from a domestic fridge

Roger B — Fri, 23 Jan 2015 08:43:56 +0000

Hi John

I tried that idea and spent days monitoring and recording the temperature every hour (except overnight).
I eventually got the timing right to maintain a useful temperature range but it was unable to cope with changes in ambient temperature.
These range from LOW OF 7 or 8 deg C to A HIGH OF 25 to 28 deg C.
The temperature controller that I used is, of course, able to cope with this.

Good luck.